The Ultimate 5-Day Beijing Itinerary You Need
If you're visiting China for the first time, from iconic landmarks to immersive experiences, Beijing is the perfect destination to experience the country's fascinating blend of ancient traditions and modern innovations. As the capital, it boasts a rich history dating back thousands of years, with iconic landmarks like the Forbidden City, the Great Wall, and the Temple of Heaven showcasing its imperial past.
At the same time, Beijing is a bustling metropolis with cutting-edge architecture, vibrant shopping districts, and a thriving arts and food scene. Whether you're exploring its historic hutongs, indulging in authentic Peking duck, or marveling at futuristic skyscrapers, Beijing offers a seamless mix of old and new, making it an exciting and easy-to-navigate city for first-time visitors! Here’s how to make the most of your time in China’s capital.
Beijing Itinerary Overview 🗺️
Day 1 | Tiananmen Square | Forbidden city | Jingshan Park |
Day 2 | Mutianyu Great Wall Day Tour | Peking duck |
Day 3 | Popland Beijing (Popmart City Park) | Beijing EPSON teamLab Massless Art Space |
Day 4 | |
Day 5 |
Day 1: Exploring Beijing’s Imperial Past
Start your adventure by stepping into Beijing’s imperial history. Today you’ll visit some of the most famous sites that have defined China’s capital for centuries.
Tiananmen Square (天安门)
Begin your day at Tiananmen Square, one of the largest public squares in the world and a symbol of China’s rich history and national pride. This vast and historically significant landmark is surrounded by some of the country's most important political and cultural institutions. Here, you'll find key sites such as the Mausoleum of Mao Zedong, where visitors can pay respects to the founding father of modern China, and the National Museum of China, which houses an extensive collection of artifacts spanning thousands of years of Chinese history.
- Entrance fee: Free
- Opening hours: 5AM - 10PM
Forbidden City (故宫)
Just across from Tiananmen Square, step into the Forbidden City, a UNESCO-listed palace complex that once housed 24 emperors of the Ming and Qing dynasties. As you pass through the Meridian Gate, you'll be greeted by vast courtyards, grand halls, and intricate carvings that showcase the opulence of imperial China. Explore the Outer Court, where state affairs took place in the Hall of Supreme Harmony, and admire the vibrant red walls, golden rooftops, and dragon motifs symbolizing power and prestige.
Venture deeper into the Inner Court, where the emperor and his family resided, visiting the Palace of Heavenly Purity and the Hall of Union to glimpse royal life. Forbidden City is indeed a must-visit for anyone eager to uncover China’s imperial legacy.
Consider an audio guide or guided tour to gain deeper insight into the stories of emperors, concubines, and court intrigues. Also, be sure to book your tickets in advance as the number of daily visitors is limited!
- Entrance fee: From ¥84
- Opening hours: April to October: 8:30AM - 5PM | November to March: 8:30AM - 4:30PM
Jingshan Park (景山公园)
End the day with a short but rewarding hike up Jingshan Park, a scenic hill that offers the best panoramic view of the Forbidden City. Positioned directly north of the palace, this man-made hill was constructed from the soil excavated to build the Forbidden City’s moat.
At the summit, the Wanchun Pavilion provides a breathtaking vantage point, especially during sunset when the golden rooftops of the Forbidden City glow in the fading light. This is also a fantastic spot for photography, offering a sweeping 360-degree view of Beijing’s historic skyline, including Beihai Park and the modern skyscrapers in the distance.
- Entrance fee: ¥2
- Opening hours: April to October: 6:30AM - 9PM | November to March: 6:30AM - 8PM
Day 2: Great Wall Adventure & Local Cuisine
No visit to Beijing is complete without seeing the Great Wall. Today, prepare for an exciting journey to one of China’s most famous landmarks!
Mutianyu Great Wall (慕田峪长城)
Take a day trip to the Mutianyu section of the Great Wall, known for its stunning scenery and immaculately maintained watchtowers! The Mutianyu Great Wall is one of the most well-preserved and scenic sections of the Great Wall of China, offering a perfect blend of history, breathtaking landscapes, and a less crowded experience compared to other sections like Badaling.
For a more comfortable and scenic ascent, take the closed cable car, which offers a sheltered ride up the Great Wall. As you glide over the lush mountains, enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding countryside, providing a cozy experience while you ascend to one of the most breathtaking sections of the wall.
For those seeking a more adventurous experience, opt for the open cable car, which allows you to feel the breeze as you ascend. This option provides an exhilarating, unobstructed view of the landscape below.
After exploring the wall, spice up your descent with the toboggan slide, a thrilling ride that lets you control your speed as you glide down the mountainside!
- Entrance fee: Adult ¥40 | Child & Senior ¥20 | Child under 6: Free
- Opening hours: Peak Season 7:30AM - 6:30PM | Off Peak Season 8AM - 5:30PM
Peking Duck Dinner (北京烤鸭)
After a long day, reward yourself with Beijing’s signature dish—Peking Duck. This dish is served with thin pancakes, sweet bean sauce, sliced cucumbers, and scallions, allowing diners to wrap the succulent duck slices into a delicious bite-sized roll. Try one of the a famous restaurants Ziguangyuan 紫光园 for an authentic experience!
Day 3: Modern Art & Pop Culture
Immerse yourself in Beijing’s vibrant contemporary art scene with interactive exhibits and unique collectibles.
Popland Beijing (Pop Mart City Park)
Popland Beijing, also known as Pop Mart City Park, is a vibrant and immersive destination for fans of POP MART and collectible art! This colorful space is a must-visit for anyone who loves toys, figurines, and unique artistic creations.
Image credit: POPLAND
The park offers an interactive and fun experience for all ages, with themed zones that showcase the brand’s most iconic characters, such as the adorable Molly and the playful Labubu. Whether you’re a dedicated collector or just someone looking to enjoy the creative atmosphere, Popland provides a captivating journey through pop culture that’s sure to spark nostalgia and excitement.
Image credit: POPLAND
It’s the perfect spot to shop for unique souvenirs or simply enjoy the whimsical and colorful environment.
- Entrance fee: Adult ¥150 | Child ¥130
- Opening hours: 10AM - 8PM
Beijing EPSON teamLab Massless Art Space (北京EPSON teamLab无相艺术空间)
Step into a futuristic world of digital art of Beijing EPSON teamLab Massless Art Space. As soon as you enter, you are transported into a world where the boundaries between art, technology, and nature are blurred. This immersive museum is a stunning fusion of light, sound, motion, and color, with exhibits designed to be experienced in motion, creating a sense of wonder and awe.
Visitors can also interact with the art, affecting its form and movement, creating a sense of connection with the exhibits.
- Opening hours: Weekdays 10:30AM - 7PM | 10:30AM - 8PM
Day 4: Serenity & Spirituality
Today is all about history, nature, and traditional Chinese architecture. Prepare for a relaxing day filled with cultural exploration.
Summer Palace (颐和园)
The Summer Palace is a magnificent imperial garden that offers a peaceful escape from the bustling city, brimming with scenic beauty and historical significance. As you stroll through the vast grounds, you’ll encounter Kunming Lake, where you can take a leisurely boat ride to enjoy the serene surroundings, including picturesque bridges and traditional Chinese pavilions. The park is also dotted with ornate corridors, temples, and lush gardens that were once reserved for imperial retreats.
Whether you're admiring the classical Chinese architecture, enjoying the tranquility of the lake, or exploring the lush greenery, the Summer Palace offers an enchanting experience that perfectly blends nature, history, and art.
- Entrance fee: From ¥94
- Opening hours: April to October: 6:30AM - 6:00 PM | November to March: 7AM - 5PM
Temple of Heaven (天坛)
The Temple of Heaven, located in the heart of Beijing, is one of the city’s most iconic landmarks. This UNESCO World Heritage site was originally constructed in the 15th century, where emperors of the Ming and Qing dynasties prayed for good harvests. The temple itself is an architectural masterpiece, featuring the Hall of Prayer for Good Harvests and the Circular Mound Altar, both beautifully designed and rich in cultural significance.
Surrounding the temple is a vast park, perfect for a relaxing stroll. If you're lucky, you’ll find locals practicing traditional activities like tai chi, calligraphy, and kite flying, which offer an authentic glimpse into the daily life of Beijing residents.
- Entrance fee: From ¥54
- Opening hours: 8AM - 5PM
Day 5: A Thrilling Finale at Universal Beijing Resort
End your trip with an action-packed day at Universal Beijing Resort (Universal Studios Beijing).
Universal Beijing Resort (北京环球度假区)
Universal Beijing Resort (Universal Studios Beijing) is a must-visit destination for thrill-seekers and movie fans alike! This expansive theme park brings beloved movie franchises like Harry Potter, Jurassic World, Transformers, Minions, and more to life with immersive attractions, thrilling rides, and world-class shows. This is also the home to Kung Fu Panda Land of Awesomeness, which is the world's first Kung Fu Panda themed park!
Lunch & Snacks in the Park
At Universal Beijing Resorts, dining is just as immersive as the attractions themselves, with a variety of themed restaurants and snack stands offering unique, movie-inspired experiences. In The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, you can sip on a refreshing glass of Butterbeer, just like the students of Hogwarts.
Whether you're grabbing a quick snack or sitting down for a full meal, these themed dining options add an exciting and flavorful touch to your adventure.
- Entrance fee: From ¥395
- Opening hours: 9AM - 8PM
Planning Your First Trip To Beijing
1. Best Time To Visit Beijing
Credit: @davilla7czh via Instagram
The best time to visit Beijing is during spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). These two seasons offer the most pleasant weather, allowing you to explore the city's many outdoor attractions without the extremes of winter cold or summer heat.
Spring offers clear skies, which is perfect for sightseeing at iconic landmarks like the Forbidden City, the Great Wall, and the Summer Palace. The weather is comfortable for outdoor activities and the gardens come alive with blooming flowers, including the famous cherry blossoms, making it a visually stunning time to visit.
Autumn is another fantastic time to visit! The air is crisp, and the skies are generally clear, providing excellent visibility for taking in the city’s landmarks and natural beauty. Beijing’s parks, like Jingshan Park, or historical landmarks like the Great Wall, are especially beautiful during autumn when the foliage turns vibrant shades of red, orange, and yellow.
The two main holiday periods to avoid are the Lunar New Year (first week of February) and China's birthday, also known as Golden Week (first week of October).
2) Getting to Beijing
By Plane
Beijing is a major international gateway to China, with two major airports serving the city: Beijing Capital International Airport (PEK) and Beijing Daxing International Airport (PKX). Both airports are well-equipped with modern facilities, efficient transportation options, and connections to destinations worldwide.
- If you have an international flight, Beijing Capital International Airport (PEK) has more global connections.
- If you’re flying domestically or regionally, Beijing Daxing International Airport (PKX) offers a modern and seamless travel experience.
- If you prefer the closest airport to downtown, PEK is the better option.
- If you want quicker airport transfers and high-speed train access, PKX is a great choice.
Regardless of which airport you arrive at, Beijing’s extensive public transportation network makes it easy to reach the city center.
By High-Speed Rail
China’s high-speed rail network is one of the most advanced in the world, making it easy to travel to Beijing from major cities like Shanghai, Xi’an, Guangzhou, and beyond. Beijing has several railway stations, but the two main high-speed rail hubs are Beijing South Railway Station (北京南站) and Beijing West Railway Station (北京西站).
3) Beijing Private Transfer
For long journeys to the airport or train station, arranging a private transfer in advance is the most hassle-free option. It helps you avoid packed metro trains, difficulty finding a taxi, or struggling with heavy luggage, especially during rush hours.
For our airport transfer, we booked an MPV for our group of four, and it was a game-changer after a week of shopping! With ample space for our bags, the ride to the airport was smooth and stress-free.
4) Stay Connected with an eSIM
If you're worried about the "Great Firewall of China", we'll let you in on a secret. Klook’s China eSIM lets you access Instagram, WhatsApp, Google, and more without needing a VPN!
![[Global] eSIM Compatible Devices](https://res.klook.com/image/upload/fl_lossy.progressive,q_85/c_fill,w_550,h_356/v1716259670/ckyu0xbi1p5ayp26fcir.webp)
5) Must-Have Apps for China Travel
Whether you're exploring the futuristic skyline of Shanghai or getting lost in Beijing’s historic hutongs, there’s one thing you’ll quickly realize — everything runs on apps. Here are 10 essential apps that I used (and loved) during my trip — and trust me, they’ll save you a ton of time and stress!
🇨🇳 Beijing Travel Essentials 🇨🇳
- Day trips: Great Wall of China | Gubei Water Town
Getting around
Stay connected with a China eSIM and find the best places to stay in Beijing — plus exclusive hotel promos and bundle deals!
More Mainland China Travel Inspiration
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